When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Jewel-Osco
Why Jewel-Osco is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jewel-Osco stands as a prominent regional supermarket chain primarily serving the Chicago metropolitan area, including northern, central, and western Illinois, eastern Iowa, and parts of northwest Indiana. Headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, this well-established chain operates 189 stores as of 2025 and has deep roots dating back to its origins as a door-to-door coffee delivery service. Over the decades, Jewel-Osco expanded from grocery deliveries to full supermarkets, evolving into a community staple. Its combination of food and drug retail, inherited through the acquisition of Osco Drug stores in 1961, creates a convenient shopping destination that meets diverse customer needs under one roof. As part of the Albertsons Companies family since 1999, Jewel-Osco offers a wide range of grocery products, pharmacy services, and household essentials, making it an ideal meeting place for friends and families looking to shop, grab a quick snack, or pick up prescriptions. The stores emphasize customer care, competitive pricing, and a broad selection, reflecting a commitment to the local communities it serves and continues to expand within.
Here's what people think of Jewel-Osco
As of recent, Jewel-Osco holds a 3.9-star rating based on 2324 reviews.
Customer reviews of Jewel-Osco present a mixed but insightful perspective on the chain’s performance and service quality. Many shoppers appreciate the convenience of combining grocery shopping with pharmacy needs and note the stores’ broad product selection as a significant advantage. Positive feedback often highlights friendly staff, well-organized store layouts, and competitive pricing as key reasons they prefer Jewel-Osco for their regular shopping trips. Customers also value the long-standing presence of Jewel-Osco in their neighborhoods and its commitment to serving the Chicago metropolitan area. However, less favorable reviews point to concerns around the online shopping experience, particularly relating to the accuracy of order fulfillment and substitution policies, which have led to customer frustration in some cases. Complaints about customer service responsiveness in resolving delivery errors and refunds also appear in reviews, indicating areas for operational improvement. While the company is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has received critical feedback on certain service aspects, the overall user sentiment is balanced, with many loyal shoppers continuing to rely on Jewel-Osco’s extensive grocery and pharmacy offerings. Thus, the reviews suggest a well-established supermarket chain that effectively serves its community but faces challenges in its digital and customer service practices.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joshua Yorgii Gomez-Alvelo Castro
Been coming to this jewels since i worked for LendNation back in 2018. This Jewel was my go to for the chicken special or drinks, or chips. I like going here alot to get my lunch. Good vibes always. Went back today and it still looks the same plus the staff is always helpful and happy. I will be back soon for sure.
Ever More Art
INCREDIBLE SUSHI CHEF!!! I don't want to give away my secret, but I can't keep it to myself. The Sushi Chef at this Jewel is masterful! My favorite treat is a Poke Bowl. This Chef has been with Jewel for years, I am told. He should be CELEBRATED because he's AWESOME!!!
Michael Medina
Picked up a cake today. Worker behind the counter was super helpful and knowledgeable about the bakery inventory and descriptions.
Cristal Ruiz
Okay so here’s my issue with this location; a couple of weeks ago my bf went out and purchased two cans of baby formula. I kept the receipt knowing my infant was going to turn a year old in a few days and that she would probably no longer be taking the infant formula. Sure enough she did stop wanting to take the infant one so I had to switch her over to a toddler one. My bf went into this location last week(I did not go with him) he brought the two cans of formula and the original receipt and was originally told he could go and pick out the new formula and they would exchange it for him. When he came back to the counter with the new formula he was told he needed the original card to do an exchange. I was a little bit confused as to why he would need the card for an exchange but i didn’t argue. My bf went back earlier this week. Went to the service desk. Again he asked if he could exchange the formula. He was told yes once again and when he came back to the service desk he said he noticed a person walking away from the service desk and the person that told him yes at first then told him that they actually could not exchange any baby products. That same day I was fed up after being told yes we could exchange the formula so i decided to go back and try and speak to a manager so they could help me. I will say management at this location lacks empathy with their customers because I tried to explain to them that the biggest frustration of mine is that we were told yes we could exchange the formula twice but each time had an excuse as to why they could not do it. I did contact customer service twice that day and no one seemed to be able to help me. The only thing I was told was that they would pass my information to the general manager but it’s been about three days and no one has reached out . I am currently trying to get a hold of customer service once again and have been waiting for 15minutes because “team members are assisting other callers” This is insane. Walmart and target don’t even give this much push back over simply exchanging stuff. EDIT : I got a hold of customer service again over the weekend and the nice lady that helped me was able to get in contact with the store and had them call me back so I could exchange my items . So glad I don’t have to stop shopping here now !
SKT
Self checkout employees treat you as if you are stealing groceries. There is one woman who always hovers over the customers as we are checking out. If you want to be ignored and treated like a thief, shop here. This jewel is 3 minutes away from where I live but I travel farther to shop at another Jewel where the employees are friendly and accommodating.
How to reach Jewel-Osco
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Why Jewel-Osco may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jewel-Osco with your friends? Meeting up at Jewel-Osco offers a unique blend of convenience, variety, and affordability that makes it an excellent choice for group gatherings. Unlike traditional meetup spots, Jewel-Osco is not just a grocery store; it is a community hub where friends and family can come together to plan, shop, and even indulge in snacks or prepared meals. With a solid rating of 3.9 from over 2,300 reviews, this supermarket strikes a balance between service quality and accessibility. Located in multiple neighborhoods, including Chicago and Bloomington, Jewel-Osco’s extended hours often accommodate group meetups beyond typical daytime schedules, which is a bonus for busy friends. The wide range of products—from fresh produce and bakery delights to household essentials—allows groups to customize their visits according to specific needs. Whether you want to organize a picnic, host a potluck, or simply spend time browsing aisles and discovering new foods together, Jewel-Osco provides ample opportunities and convenience. Gathering here means combining social activities with practicality, making it a smart choice for those who value both fun and efficiency.
What activities can you do at Jewel-Osco for a group meetup? First and foremost, Jewel-Osco offers diverse food options that can turn an everyday shopping trip into a culinary adventure. Friends can explore fresh produce sections together, selecting ingredients for a group-cooked meal later. The bakery and deli counters are also popular social spots where everyone can pick treats to share, such as freshly baked breads, pastries, or specialty cheeses. This creates an informal tasting experience that is both enjoyable and interactive. Moreover, Jewel-Osco’s prepared foods section features meals like rotisserie chicken, salads, and ready-to-eat sides, perfect for groups who want a quick and satisfying bite without cooking. Another engaging activity is shopping challenges, where friends can compete or collaborate to find the best deals using the Jewel-Osco app or weekly ads, fostering camaraderie while saving money. Jewel-Osco also carries special services such as rug doctor rentals, Coinstar, and Western Union, which can be useful if your meetup also involves errands or planning for future events. This variety of activities makes Jewel-Osco far more than a simple grocery run; it’s a versatile locale that supports eating, shopping, and spending quality group time.
Why is Jewel-Osco perfect for a group meetup? The store’s accessibility and numerous locations—189 across several states—make it easy for groups from different areas to converge at a convenient spot. Many stores operate extended hours, some open as early as 6:00 AM and staying open until midnight, giving groups the flexibility to meet at times that suit everyone’s schedules. The spacious layout of most Jewel-Osco locations can comfortably accommodate groups, allowing you to shop side-by-side without feeling cramped. It’s also notable that the store integrates technology with community needs by offering digital tools such as the Jewel-Osco app for personalized deals and gas points, saving money for groups who plan purchases together. This customer-centric approach enhances the shopping experience. Additionally, the store offers specialized services like pharmacies and in-store banking, making it convenient for groups who want to combine social time with practical errands. Friendly staff often assist in finding items or accommodating special requests, adding a welcoming atmosphere that makes group visits smoother and more enjoyable. These factors collectively position Jewel-Osco as an ideal venue for both casual hangouts and purposeful meetups.
How can Jewel-Osco support themed or special gatherings? Beyond everyday shopping, Jewel-Osco’s offerings can easily be tailored to holiday celebrations, cultural festivities, or themed potlucks. The store stocks a wide range of ingredients for various cuisines, supporting diverse menus to match any occasion. For example, for a summer get-together, groups can pick up BBQ essentials like fresh meats, grills, and condiments. For a holiday party, the bakery and prepared food sections can provide ready-to-serve desserts and entrees, easing preparation burdens. Jewel-Osco’s floral department, present in many locations, offers decorative blooms that can brighten up any event setting or home. Additionally, the store frequently runs promotions and discounts that groups can leverage to keep costs manageable when planning larger gatherings. The convenience of accessing household essentials alongside food and drink means that party supplies, paper goods, and cleaning products are never far away. This comprehensive shopping environment removes obstacles from event planning and lets groups focus on enjoying their celebration together.
What makes Jewel-Osco a community-friendly venue for families and friends? The supermarket chain emphasizes service and convenience with specific programs and offers tailored to frequent shoppers and families. For example, Jewel-Osco rewards customers with gas points and digital coupons when they purchase groceries or fill prescriptions at their pharmacy, making everyday expenses more affordable for all. These benefits extend to group shoppers who collaborate and pool resources. Children and families can enjoy fresh bakery items or convenience meals that accommodate a range of tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone is satisfied during the visit. The availability of in-store amenities such as pharmacies, banking kiosks, and even services like money transfers helps groups accomplish multiple tasks in one place. This not only saves time but fosters a sense of community as shoppers support local businesses and interact with courteous staff. The convenience and value offered make Jewel-Osco’s environment welcoming and practical for family-friendly meetups and casual socializing alike, catering to the needs of diverse age groups and lifestyles.
How does Jewel-Osco’s pricing and deals benefit groups meeting there? One of the biggest draws of assembling at Jewel-Osco is the store’s commitment to competitive pricing and customer savings. The regular weekly ads present a variety of discounts on staples and specialty items, which savvy shoppers can use to plan shared purchases and split costs. Jewel-Osco’s app further personalizes savings by offering digital coupons targeted to individual preferences, but groups can coordinate to maximize collective discounts on bulk or varied items. Additionally, certain incentives apply to pharmacy customers, such as discounts on groceries after filling prescriptions, which can be appealing for groups including family members managing health needs. The store’s frequent promotions and price matching encourage customers to gather for shopping missions designed around deals, making it fun and cost-effective. This combination of value and convenience makes Jewel-Osco not just a practical spot for groceries but a strategic choice for groups wanting to stretch their budgets while enjoying quality items.
What kind of social atmosphere can you expect at Jewel-Osco? While Jewel-Osco is fundamentally a supermarket, it cultivates a friendly and approachable environment that fosters casual social interaction. The staff, known for their helpfulness, often engage with shoppers, answering questions or assisting in finding items, which contributes to a welcoming vibe. Because Jewel-Osco locations are often community staples, regulars tend to bump into neighbors and acquaintances, creating spontaneous opportunities for conversation. The layout supports group browsing without feeling rushed, and many stores have seating areas or cafes where you can pause and chat over coffee or snacks brought from the deli. This blend of retail and social space turns a routine grocery trip into a relaxed event where friends and families can reconnect. Whether it’s sharing recipe ideas, sampling new items together, or simply enjoying each other’s company while running errands, Jewel-Osco provides an inviting backdrop for meaningful interactions.
What additional services complement the group meetup experience at Jewel-Osco? Aside from groceries, Jewel-Osco enhances the meetup experience with several complementary services. For one, the in-store pharmacy not only serves health needs but also offers programs that tie into grocery savings, making it easier for families to coordinate health and household shopping. Many Jewel-Osco stores include banking kiosks, Coinstar machines, and money transfer services like Western Union, which can be convenient stops when meeting for social or practical reasons. Rug doctor rentals and other home service items are often available too, allowing groups who share homes or responsibilities to combine errands efficiently. The digital integration through the Jewel-Osco app lets groups look up deals and store inventories in real time, enabling better planning and less waiting. These additional conveniences make Jewel-Osco a multifunctional location where a group meetup can move seamlessly from shopping to managing various life tasks, all under one roof.
Why is Jewel-Osco a reliable choice despite some mixed reviews? With a 3.9 rating from over 2,300 customers, Jewel-Osco sits in a respectable range for a large supermarket chain. The diverse feedback reflects the complexities of operating high-traffic stores that serve many needs. While some reviews note occasional inconsistencies in service or product availability, the overall experience remains positive, especially for groups valuing convenience, variety, and affordability. Jewel-Osco’s commitment to maintaining multiple locations with extended hours, a wide product range, and integrated services makes it a dependable choice for meetups. Additionally, its focus on community and customer engagement through apps and savings programs demonstrates ongoing efforts to enhance the shopping experience. For groups, this means access to a familiar, well-stocked, and convenient setting that balances quality and value, making Jewel-Osco a practical and enjoyable spot to gather with friends or family.